Wingate Anaerobic Testing (WAnT)

Tool Description

first validated in able-bodied individuals to use as a predictor of physical performance of anaerobic activities.

Arm WAnT has been used in persons with paraplegia to compare to performance of upper limb anaerobic tasks such as transferring in and out of the car and 26m wheelchair sprints.

Clinical Considerations

This is the only standardized test to monitor upper extremity strength and power. Most assessments look at aerobic function rather than anaerobic tasks. This test has been shown to be valid and reliable across a wide range of able bodied and disabled individuals, including those with paraplegia. It is also a well-established protocol that has been used in many populations so comparisons are possible.

The test is relatively easy and inexpensive to administer with the appropriate equipment; however, the initial expenditure is significant.

ICF Domain:

You Will Need:

10-20 minutes including warm-up (depending on number of tests administered)

The individual “free wheels” on an arm ergometer with no resistance for 3-5 minutes, after which they increase the cadence to 100 rev/min. The resistance load is then applied (3.5% body weight) and the subject pedals as fast as they can for 30 seconds, followed by a 1-2 minute cool down without resistance.

Equipment:

Arm ergometer, computer and software.

Scoring:

Peak (highest average power for any 5s period) & mean power (average power over 30s) calculated via computer linked to ergometer. The ergometer system is typically linked to a computer with specific software to calculate peak power based on resistance and speed (the highest average power output at any given 5 sec period) and mean power (average power output over a 30 sec trial).

Reviewer

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Video

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Scoring

The ergometer system is typically linked to a computer with specific software to calculate peak power based on resistance and speed (the highest average power output at any given 5 sec period) and mean power (average power output over a 30 sec trial).